- Uncontrolled blood pressure (defined as systolic > 180 mmHg and/or diastolic > 110 mmHg while patient is sitting) If a patient's initial reading exceeds these values, a second reading may be taken 30 or more minutes later. If the patient's blood pressure needs to be controlled by antihypertensive medication, the patient can become eligible if medication is taken continuously for at least 30 days prior to Day 0.